The 2026 and first-ever American Bowl is officially in the books. With the all-star game came an abundance of this year’s NFL draft prospects gathered together for a week in Orlando, Florida. Bowl Week was dedicated to not only assisting players in their further training and exposure, but honoring military service members. The game itself was a very low-scoring affair, but the exciting moments and skills that players showcased was definitely present. With all of that being said, let’s highlight some key moments and players that elevated the game throughout the 2026 American Bowl.
2026 American Bowl
Warhawks win with seconds remaining
The Guardians, led by head coach Mike Smith took a 3-0 lead early on, but it remained evident that both of these teams were not going to make it easy on each other. The Warhawks were led by head coach Brian Billick, and were in scoring position during several possessions throughout the contest. However, they were unable to convert successfully due to a dominant Guardians defensive front.
After another good field goal attempt, courtesy of Nate Reed (Delaware), the lead was extended to 6-0. And with the play clock running out, it was questionable if the Warhawks would be able to successfully convert to put points on the board.
Yet they did just that.
Quarterback Jacob Clark from Missouri State found Wes Grimes (NC State) in the end zone with 18 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter. Despite a valiant effort by Tommy Castellanos (Florida State), the Guardians were unable to take the lead once again. Their final drive and ultimately fell, making it a thrilling victory for Coach Billick and the Warhawks team.
Soaring run game
The position group that stood out the most on both sidelines was the running backs.
The backfield was loaded with talent that impressed and became a vital part of each team’s success. For the Warhawks, Star Thomas (Tennessee), and Lincoln Pare (Texas State) were both key contributors. Pare often battled through defenders and extended drives. Meanwhile, Thomas was a go-to target for the team.
For the Guardians it was KJ Owens (FIU) and Jamal Haynes (Georgia Tech) who were powerful and reliable options throughout the entire four quarters.
Other Standouts
Nasir Bowers, DB – Toledo
Bowers had a momentum-changing interception. He also showed an ability to fly to the football.
Ty Montgomery, WR – John Carroll
Montgomery proved to be a reliable target and created plenty of separation.
DT Sheffield, WR – Rutgers
Sheffield was speedy and consistently made impressive grabs throughout the contest.
Shomari Lawrence, RB – Missouri State
Lawrence showed to be an agile back and rushed past defenders.
Dequan Finn, QB – Miami OH
Finn was an effective scrambler. He made it very tough for defenders to contain him throughout the game.
Quinn Urwiler, LB – Northern Illinois
Urwiler was a dominant presence at the forefront and a playmaker.
Damon Payne, DL – Michigan
A steady anchor on the line, Payne caused deflections and created havoc.
Javin Wright, LB – Nebraska
Wright was a physical linebacker with good instincts.
AJ Peña, DL – Rhode Island
A force to be reckoned with. AJ Peña caused a sack-fumble and recovered it himself. He was incredibly impressive in this contest.
Mason Woods, LB – Kent State
Woods was an ative defender. He utilized his versatility to make stops.
Final Thoughts
To close things out, awards were presented to three players who continuously displayed their grit and had star-studded performances in the 2026 American Bowl.
Offensive player of the game went to Wes Grimes, defensive player to Nasir Bowers, and MVP to quarterback Jacob Clark.
One of the most interesting aspects of all-star games is that they create an environment where players from around the country, each with their own unique story can come together and compete, all with the same common goal in mind. Several go on the journey with their teammates, others may be sole representers of the programs they reign from and many have already competed against each other throughout the college football regular season. The constant however, is that all honored and grateful for the experience and being given the opportunity. For the most part, this is still the early period of training as NFL draft prospects and the next chapter of these players’ stories is only just beginning.
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Mackenzie Neglia
Currently a student at the University of South Florida, raised in a New York football family. Always looking for a new book, coffee shop, and travel spot.